An Iraqi delegation began talks in Washington on Thursday concerning the U.S. military presence in Iraq, ahead of a meeting between Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi and President Joe Biden on Monday at the White House. U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Mara Karlin welcomed a delegation led by Iraqi National Security Advisor Qassem al-Araji to discuss "long-term military cooperation" between the two countries, according to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby’s statement.
Kirby noted that U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin joined the discussions to "reaffirm his commitment" to continue fighting against the Islamic State. After U.S. interests in Iraq were targeted by about 50 rocket or drone attacks since the beginning of the year, Austin emphasized "the necessity for the U.S. and the coalition to be able to assist the Iraqi army safely."
The talks will continue on Friday, focusing particularly on the mission of U.S. soldiers deployed in Iraq, amid concerns of an open conflict between Baghdad’s allies, the U.S. and Iran. Last week, Kadhimi met with White House envoy Brett McGurk in Baghdad to discuss the withdrawal of "combat forces from Iraq." However, White House spokesperson Jen Psaki stated on Thursday that the Iraqi government "desires to continue the training and support of its army by the United States and the coalition, as well as providing logistical support and information sharing."
The strategic dialogue between Baghdad and Washington is expected to lead to a timeline for the withdrawal of the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State. There are still about 3,500 foreign troops on Iraqi soil, including 2,500 Americans, but their complete withdrawal may take years.
